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“When someone has an alcohol or drug problem and they come to us for treatment, we believe in treating the whole family, because everyone’s been affected,” Rogan explains. This includes educating family and friends about the classic signs of enabling, which include:

· Calling in for someone to skip an obligation

· Taking care of his or her financial responsibilities

Coping Strategies for Loved Ones

#1: Get Educated

First, Rogan stresses the importance of getting educated by reading books or online articles, or seeking counseling. It’s important for you to learn about your loved one's addiction so you know what type of signs or symptoms to expect and how to handle varying situations you may experience.

#2: Get Support

In order to effectively offer support for your loved one, you first need support for yourself. Rogan reminds the people she educates and counsels, “If you’re not taking care of and getting support for yourself, how can you be there for those that you love?”

If your loved one is struggling with an alcohol or substance addiction, Rogan suggests visiting the following websites to find education and access to support groups – both online and in-person:

· Nar-Anon Family Groups (narcotics abuse)

· Al-Anon Family Groups (alcohol abuse)

#3: Encourage Your Loved one to Seek Help

Alcohol and drug treatment programs can answer the questions you may have about a loved one's case, but that person needs to make the call for an appointment.

“This is the beginning of not enabling and having someone take responsibility for their own help,” Rogan says.

Rogan also recommends talking to a counselor before encouraging your loved one to seek professional help, because a trained professional can help you appropriately address the situation.

For some, intensive outpatient treatment may be appropriate, while others may be referred to inpatient treatment or individual counseling. Rogan suggests that close family members or friends be involved in the treatment process.